Police Crack Down on Criminal Activity Linked to Food Delivery Drivers in Hereford.

A targeted operation was carried out by Hereford Police in partnership with West Midlands Immigration Compliance and Enforcement (ICE) on Thursday evening along Commercial Street and Union Street. The action aimed to tackle illegal activity associated with food delivery drivers operating in the city centre.

The operation is part of a broader intelligence-led initiative responding to growing concerns across the UK. National intelligence and multiple UK police forces have raised concerns regarding the food delivery sector, highlighting the use of uninsured or modified vehicles, as well as a high number of foreign nationals working without the necessary legal authorisation.

There are also increasing reports of drivers sharing or loaning delivery platform accounts, allowing individuals without employment rights to operate under another person’s name, raising significant compliance, safety, and liability issues.

Operation Outcomes:

• 23 individuals were stopped for immigration checks.
• Two illegal e-bikes were seized.

The operation follows growing concerns from businesses in the city centre. Hereford BID has received multiple reports from members about delivery drivers stealing food orders, with some hospitality businesses estimating losses of up to 10% as a result.

“We commend Hereford Police for taking action to investigate and crack down on the under-regulated food delivery industry,” said James Whitby, Manager of Hereford BID’s DISC security database.

“Delivery platforms offer a valuable service to local businesses, but for over a year now, businesses have had to contend with unprofessional and sometimes unscrupulous drivers stealing food. This illegal activity not only causes financial losses but also damages the reputation of the business in the eyes of customers.”

Hereford BID will continue to collaborate closely with West Mercia Police, local authorities, and partner agencies to address ongoing concerns linked to the food delivery sector.

Further enforcement activity is expected in the coming months, with Hereford BID urging local businesses to report suspicious behaviour and continue using platforms like DISC to share intelligence and protect their operations.

“This isn’t a one-off. It’s part of a coordinated response to protect local businesses, uphold standards, and ensure the city centre remains a safe and reputable place to trade,” added Whitby.